THUNDER BAY -- The Silver Islet Small Craft Harbour in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is now open to the public.
Thunder Bay-Superior North MP Patty Hajdu officially announced the reopening, following a $2.83-million rehabilitation project that included replacing the harbour's existing timber wharf structure, repairing the bubble-mound breakwater, repositioning the launching ramp and adding a header dock inside the breakwater.
Hadju said small harbours like Silver Islet have important roles to play across the country.
“The community of Silver Islet is an important access point for residents and visitors to explore the beauty of Lake Superior. This significant investment in the Silver Islet Small Craft Harbour demonstrates the government of Canada’s commitment to safe and accessible harbours on Lake Superior," Hajdu said in a release issued on Saturday morning.
"A safe, accessible and reliable harbour will play a key role in the economic growth we see in the area. Congratulations to all the people who have worked on this project to ensure we can continue to enjoy this area, a true local treasure.”
The project will have an impact for years to come,said Scott Cheadle, president of the Silver Islet Harbour Association.
“The Silver Islet Harbour Association could not be more pleased with the recent restoration of this strategic and historic facility," Cheadle said.
"On behalf of SIHA, its stakeholders, and the community of Silver Islet, we wish to thank those in our federal government and Fisheries and Oceans Canada for enabling us to continue providing public access to and safe refuge from the natural wonder that is northern Lake Superior.”
The project was part of a larger move by the federal government to transfer ownership of recreational or low-activity harbours to interested third parties considered to be in the bests position to respond to the needs of local residents and the local economy.
Ottawa has proposed spending $300 million over the next two years to repair, renew and replace small-craft harbours.
